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An Introduction to Entomology: Vol. 2

by William Kirby & William Spence (1759–1850)

  • Free to read
  • 10 hours to read
  • 13 chapters
  • Reading level: 10th to 12th grade

"An Introduction to Entomology: Vol. 2" by William Kirby and William Spence is a scientific publication written in the early 19th century. This volume focuses on the natural history of insects, exploring their behaviors, social structures, and ecological roles, particularly emphasizing the fascinating world of insect societies. The opening of this volume introduces the topic of insect societies, differentiating between imperfect and perfect societies. The authors engage the reader by addressing a budding entomologist, encouraging a deeper exploration of insect life beyond mere collection. They elaborate on the various types of imperfect societies, which insects may form for different purposes such as companionship, mating, feeding, or labor. The text offers vivid descriptions of social behaviors observed in different insect species, establishing a curiosity about the intricate interactions and cooperative efforts that characterize these societies.

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  • Insects
  • Insect pests
  • Insect societies
  • Insects · History
  • Beneficial insects
  • Insects · Host plants
  • Insects · Life cycles
  • Insects · Habitations

Read the opening

Letter XVI: Societies of Insects

I see already, and I see it with pleasure, that you will not content yourself with being a mere collector of insects. To possess a cabinet well stored, and to know by what name each described individual which it contains should be distinguished, will not satisfy the love that is already grown strong in you for my favourite pursuit; and you now anticipate with a laudable eagerness, the discoveries that you may make respecting the history and economy of this most interesting department of the works of our Creator. I hail with joy this intention to emulate the bright example, and to tread in the hallowed steps of Swammerdam, Leeuwenhoek, Redi, Malpighi, Vallisnieri, Ray, Lister, Reaumur, De Geer, Lyonnet, Bonnet, the Hubers, &c.; and I am confident that a man of your abilities, discernment, and observation will contribute, in no small degree, to the treasures already poured into the general fund by these your illustrious predecessors.

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Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Letter XVI: Societies of Insects
  3. Letter XVII: Societies of Insects Continued
  4. Letter XVIII: Societies of Insects
  5. Letter XIX: Societies of Insects
  6. Letter XX: Societies of Insects
  7. Letter XXI: Means by Which Insects Defend Themselves
  8. Letter XXII: Motions of Insects. (Larva and Pupa.)
  9. Letter XXIII: Motions of Insects. (Imago.)
  10. Letter XXIV: On the Noises Produced by Insects
  11. Letter XXV: On Luminous Insects
  12. Letter XXVI: On the Hybernation and Torpidity of Insects
  13. Letter XXVII: On the Instinct of Insects

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About this edition

This free edition of An Introduction to Entomology: Vol. 2 by William Kirby & William Spence comes from Project Gutenberg eBook #43577, released 2013-08-27. It is in the public domain in the United States, so you can read it here in full at no cost, on any phone, tablet or computer. Genre: Science - Biology, Nature/Gardening/Animals.

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